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Real members of MyMyelomaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Does everyone on Xgeva or Zometa eventually get ONJ or lose their teeth?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Crestview, FL
April 3
 · 
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

It seems that if you've had a SCT and then stay on Xgeva for the typical 2 years, you'll have a much higher risk of getting Jaw Death.

April 5
MyMyelomaTeam

Does everyone on Xgeva or Zometa eventually get ONJ or lose their teeth?

No, not everyone on these medications develops osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) or loses their teeth. While ONJ is a known risk with bisphosphonates like Zometa and denosumab (Xgeva), it's actually relatively rare.

ONJ affects between 3 percent and 11 Show Full Answer

Does everyone on Xgeva or Zometa eventually get ONJ or lose their teeth?

No, not everyone on these medications develops osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) or loses their teeth. While ONJ is a known risk with bisphosphonates like Zometa and denosumab (Xgeva), it's actually relatively rare.

ONJ affects between 3 percent and 11 percent of people taking these drugs. This means the vast majority of people taking these medications do not develop this complication. The risk does increase the longer the medication is used, but it's still far from inevitable.

To help protect yourself:
* Get a dental exam before starting treatment to address any existing issues
* Maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings during treatment
* Avoid invasive dental procedures like extractions or implants while on these medications when possible
* If invasive dental work is needed, your doctor may pause the medication for 90 days before and after the procedure

Watch for warning signs like loose teeth, exposed jawbone, unusual swelling, or pus in your mouth, and contact your dentist immediately if these occur.

A MyMyelomaTeam member shared: "On Thursday I had a dental procedure for osteonecrosis of the jaw. The infection was scraped out and sent out for biopsy. I am doing well."

With proper preventive care and monitoring, most people can safely take these bone-protecting medications without developing serious dental problems.

April 3
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Never had a problem with zometa

May 23
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

I was on Xebega (or something similar). And I was told not to have any invasive dental work until four months after the treatment was completed because that could contribute to getting the osteonecrosis. Otherwise it seems that only a very small percentage of people get it.

April 4
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Joy,
I’ve been on this site for years and too many have gotten osteonecrosis of the jaw. I wonder if MM patients are higher risk than the general public taking Zometa?
Paula🌹

April 3

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